A Function-Based Methodology for Analyzing Critical Events
Abstract
The objective of this research was to develop a functionbased method for analyzing the critical sequences of events that must occur for complex space missions to be successful. The resulting methodology, the Function-based Analysis of Critical Events, or FACE, uses functional and event models to identify the changes in functionality of a system as it transitions between critical mission events. Two examples are presented that detail the application of FACE to prior mission failures including the loss of the Columbia orbiter and the failure of the Mars Polar Lander probe. The result of the research is a methodology that allows designers to not only reduce the occurrence of such failures but also analyze the specific functional causes of the failures when they do occur.
Recommended Citation
D. A. McAdams et al., "A Function-Based Methodology for Analyzing Critical Events," Proceedings of DETC/CIE 2006 ASME 2006 International Design Engineering & Computers and Information in Engineering Conferences. DETC2006, American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), Jan 2006.
Department(s)
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
Sponsor(s)
Ames Research Center
Keywords and Phrases
Complex Space Missions; Critical Sequences; Function-Based Analysis of Critical Events; Function-Based Method
Document Type
Article - Conference proceedings
Document Version
Citation
File Type
text
Language(s)
English
Rights
© 2006 American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), All rights reserved.
Publication Date
01 Jan 2006